Dust warning signs advise of poor air quality and reduced visibility but all too often neglect that most fearsome phenomenon: bedraggled bunnies beneath our beds.
Schrödinger’s Catastrophe
Ready for a dustup? You’d better be, because it’s only going to get worse. Shifting weather patterns prompted by climate change, persistent “megadroughts” and river water diverted to unsustainable agricultural projects have raised the level of airborne dust to eye-watering proportions.
Of course, there will always be those who doubt the veracity of scientific research when it contradicts their own interests. The oddly ambiguous dust warning sign above appears to cater to both climate action activists and climate change deniers, depending on which way the wind blows. (dust warning signs image at top via Quinn Dombrowski and above via Jimmy Emerson, DVM)
Dust Destiny
Speed of light, very fast. Speed of dust, not so much – or so this sign mandates. Most folks can outrun an oncoming dust storm and that’s a good thing, as apparently the slow, steady and utterly relentless dust has the power to bend stamped steel warning signs. (dust warning sign image via Alan Levine)
Dust-a la Vista
“Blowing dust”, what blowing dust? It must have taken the day off since the scenery in the photo above appears remarkably bright and clear. Don’t let that fool you, though. Dust can’t be bargained with. It can’t be reasoned with. It doesn’t feel pity, or remorse, or fear. And it absolutely will not stop blowing through the area, EVER, until your vehicle’s cabin air filter is hopelessly clogged. (dust warning sign image via Arizona Department of Transportation)
Fast Dust Busted
“Slow Down”… that means you, Dust. Everyone else, please keep on carrying on at an increased rate of speed. It’s, like, the Australian way, or at least that’s the impression one gets after watching those Mad Max movies. Speaking of which, if you’re into dust, watch a Mad Max movie or two ‘cuz they’ve got it covered. Or vice versa. (dust warning sign image via Matthew Paul Argall)
Words To Live By
To be fair, “Do Not Stop On Roadway” is good advice at ANY time, dust storm or not. New Yorkers, on the other hand, may prefer to Not Stop On Broadway. It’s a play on words, you see… Broadway? Play? We’ll see ourselves out. (dust warning sign image via US 89)
Is being a fan of dust counter-productive? Check out Over Blown: 10 Aired-Out Abandoned Fans!
